M2TECH
YOUNG DSD
HIGHEST RESOLUTION DIGITAL-TO-ANALOG CONVERTER
DIGITAL PREAMPLIFIER
USER MANUAL
REV. 1.1 – 3/2014
YOUNG DSD
DIGITAL-TO-ANALOG CONVERTER AND PREAMPLIFIER
M2Tech
www.m2tech.biz
REVISION 1.1 – march 2014
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YOUNG DSD
DIGITAL-TO-ANALOG CONVERTER AND PREAMPLIFIER
M2Tech
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REVISION 1.1 – march 2014
Warning!
Changes or modifications not authorized by the manufacturer can invalidate
the compliance to CE regulations and cause the unit to be no more suitable to
use. The manufacturer refuses every responsibility regarding damages to
people or things due to the use of a unit which has been subject to
unauthorized modifications or to misuse or to malfunction of a unit which has
been subject to unauthorized modifications.
This unit is compliant with the following CE regulations: CEI EN 55022:2009 Class B (Radiated
Emissions), CEI EN 55024:1999, CEI EN 55024:A2/2003, CEI EN 55024:IS1/2008 (Radio Frequency
Electromagnetic Fields, 50Hz Magnetic Field Immunity Test and Electrostatic Discharges – ESD).
For a proper operation of this unit, all connections to other equipment in the system must be
done when all equipment are off. Failing to comply with this advice may lead to damage to the
Young DSD.
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REVISION 1.1 – march 2014
The label above, printed on the product case, indicates that the product, when no more usable, can’t
be treated as generic garbage, but must be disposed of at a collection point for recycling of electrical
and electronic equipment, in compliance with the WEEE regulation (Waste of Electrical and Electronic
Equipment).
By making sure that this unit is correctly recycled, you will help preventing potential damages to
environment and human health, which could be caused by a wrong treatment of this product as
generic garbage. Materials’ recycling helps saving natural resources. For more in-depth information
about recycling this product, please contact M2Tech Srl.
WARNING: the information contained in this manual are considered to be reliable and accurate.
M2Tech reserves the right to change or modify the information any time, without prior advice.
It’s up to the customer to ensure that the manual being consulted is the latest version.
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REVISION 1.1 – march 2014
Dear customer,
Thank you for purchasing YOUNG DSD. You are the owner of a very high quality
digital-to-analog converter with many unique features designed to obtain the best
performance in every hi-fi system.
YOUNG DSD implements a specific set of technological and functional solutions, from
the asynchronous USB interface to passive anti-alias filtering, to offset recovery right
on I-to-V converters to the ability of delivering a high output level with the purpose of
exalting sonic performances, ease of use and reliability. Moreover, YOUNG DSD
shares many features with preamplifiers, therefore it is recommended to directly drive
power amplifiers
YOUNG DSD is provided with a complete set of inputs, to allow for using every kind of
digital source. The balanced output and the stock adaptors for single-ended
connection allow for driving every kind of amplifier. The ability of setting the maximum
output level to two values ensures that the maximum power will be reached even with
the most inefficient tube amplifier whenever the YOUNG DSD is used as a preamplifier.
The fully-loaded remote control allows for total control of both YOUNG DSD and most
audio players running on the computer attached to its USB input
We’re sure that your expectations will be fulfilled by purchasing YOUNG DSD: you’ll
hear your favourite music as never before, so you can now prepare for a whole new
listening experience!
Nadia Marino, CEO
Please note here your YOUNG DSD serial number and purchase info for future
reference:
S/N: _______________________ Date of Purchase: _________________________
Place of Purchase__________________________
Note: Proof of retail purchase, such as your purchase receipt, will be required in the unlikely
event that any warranty service will be required
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DIGITAL-TO-ANALOG CONVERTER AND PREAMPLIFIER
M2Tech
www.m2tech.biz
REVISION 1.1 – march 2014
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YOUNG DSD
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M2Tech
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REVISION 1.1 – march 2014
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Unpacking and Placing the Unit.............................................................................. 9
2. Front Panel ........................................................................................................... 11
3. Back Panel............................................................................................................ 13
4. Remote Control..................................................................................................... 15
5. Connecting and Powering the Unit ....................................................................... 17
6. Cleaning the Unit .................................................................................................. 19
7. Using the Young DSD........................................................................................... 21
7.1. Volume Setting ............................................................................................... 22
7.2. Mute Toggle ................................................................................................... 22
7.3. Choosing the Signal’s Phase ......................................................................... 23
7.4. Source Selection ............................................................................................ 23
7.5. Menu Navigation ............................................................................................ 24
7.6. Balance Setting .............................................................................................. 25
7.7. Choosing the Maximum Output Level ............................................................ 26
7.8. Setting the Display’s Backlight Intensity ......................................................... 27
7.9. Choosing Volume Mode ................................................................................. 28
7.10. Setting the Automatic Switch Off .................................................................. 29
7.11. Checking Firmware Revision........................................................................ 30
7.12. Power Off and Standby ................................................................................ 30
8. Using a Computer as Digital Source ..................................................................... 33
8.1. Plug’n’Play Operation with Apple OSX........................................................... 33
8.1.1. DSD files playback with Mac.................................................................... 37
8.2. Plug’n’Play Operation with Linux .................................................................... 39
8.2.1. DSD files playback with Linux.................................................................. 42
8.3. Using the Young DSD with Windows ............................................................. 42
8.3.1. Installing the Windows driver ................................................................... 43
8.3.2. Windows driver uninstall .......................................................................... 54
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8.3.3. Windows Driver Panel ............................................................................. 61
8.3.4. Using the YOUNG DSD as Windows predefined audio device................ 70
8.3.5. Configuring the player: FooBar and JRiver Media Center ....................... 72
8.3.6. Connecting the YOUNG DSD to an USB 1.1 port.................................... 81
9. Controlling the Computer Player by Using the Young DSD Remote Control ........ 83
10. Updating Young DSD Firmware.......................................................................... 85
11. Specifications...................................................................................................... 87
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YOUNG DSD
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REVISION 1.1 – march 2014
1. Unpacking and Placing the Unit
Lay the box on a table and open it by separating it from the external paperwork and
removing or cutting the adhesive tape seal. The following items are included:
•
•
•
•
•
•
one YOUNG DSD;
one wall wart (AC-to-DC adapter);
one USB A-B cable;
two XLR-RCA high quality adaptors;
one remote control;
this manual.
Should one or more item be missing, please contact your retail dealer.
Remove the YOUNG DSD from the foam enclosure and place it onto a stable base, far
from heat sources. Avoid full sunlight on the unit. Allow for ample room around the
unit for venting.
The YOUNG DSD is a high efficiency device; therefore it doesn’t produce relevant heat
during its operation. Regardless, it’s recommended to guarantee an adequate air flow
around the unit. Moreover, every time it will mainly be operated by remote control, it’s
recommended to place it so as the remote control’s infrared signals can easily reach
its front panel.
Avoid smoke, moisture, dirt and liquids from reaching the unit. Please note that any
signs of abuse will void warranty coverage.
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Do not place the unit on thick carpets or inside a box or piece of furniture, not even
close to curtains.
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2. Front Panel
Figure 1
1) Power on/power off/mute/menu exit button. Press this button to switch the
YOUNG DSD on when it’s off. When the YOUNG DSD is on, a short press will toggle
mute, unless the menu is active: in this case a short press will cause the menu to exit
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REVISION 1.1 – march 2014
discarding any configuration change. A more prolonged press while the YOUNG DSD is
on will cause it to switch off.
2) Standby LED. When the YOUNG DSD is in standby mode, this LED is lit to indicate
to the user that the device can be switched on by the included remote control.
3) Display. Multifunction LCD Display. During normal operation, it indicates the
listening level, the selected source and the status of mute and phase (if set). When
the menu is accessed, the display shows the selected menu item and its current
value.
4) Encoder. It allows for accessing and navigating the menu, selecting inputs and
setting the volume. It can be rotated and pushed. Please refer to Chapter 7 for more
details.
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3. Back Panel
Figure 2
5) Outputs. Connect the YOUNG DSD to your amplifier/preamplifier with balanced
inputs using balanced cables terminated with three-pole XLR connectors. Should
your amplifier only be provided with single-ended inputs, you may insert the stock
high quality adaptors into the YOUNG DSD outputs and then connect the YOUNG DSD to
the amplifier using coaxial interconnect terminated with RCA plugs. The YOUNG DSD
is provided with Gold-plated male XLR sockets.
NOTE: Ground on pin 1, send (hot) on pin 2, return (cold) on pin 3. If your
amplifier requires hot on pin 3 and cold on pin 2, the connection will be
inverting. In this case the absolute phase can be obtained using the “phase”
feature of the YOUNG DSD (please refer to chapter 7 for more details).
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6) AES/EBU digital input. Connect a source provided with 110 Ohms pro AES/EBU
output. Female three-pole XLR socket.
7-8) S/PDIF digital inputs. Connect sources provided with 75 Ohms S/PDIF outputs.
RCA and BNC female connector terminals are provided.
NOTE: it is possible, while not recommended for highest performance, to
connect a source provided with RCA S/PDIF output to the DAC S/PDIF input
provided with BNC connector, using a suitable BNC-to-RCA adapter (Note that
this optional adapter is not included with the YOUNG DSD).
DSD
9) Toslink™ optical digital input. Connect a source provided with a Toslink™
digital output. Toslink™ type connector.
10) USB connector. Connect to the USB 2.0 port of a computer using the stock USB
cable. Type “B” female USB connector.
11) Power supply input. Connect the connector from the stock 15V-1.2A.
5.5/2.1mm jack with positive on tip.
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4. Remote Control
The YOUNG DSD comes with a fully-loaded remote control which
allows for setting all of its controls.
Standby key: This allows for putting the YOUNG DSD in standby
mode (prolonged push) and for awakening it.
DIM: Display dimming.
PHASE: Analog signal phase toggle.
MENU: Configuration menu access.
ESC: Menu exit with changes discarded.
Cursor keys: Allow for menu navigation.
OK: Menu exit with changes stored.
VOL+/VOL-: Volume setting.
MUTE: Mute toggle on/off.
IN+/IN-: Input selection.
BAL L/BAL R: Balance setting.
AUX: Reserved for future use.
Figure 3
Player Controls: these buttons are dedicated to the control of
an audio player running on the computer attached to the YOUNG
DSD. The following commands can be sent: Play/pause, next
track, previous track
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M2Tech
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REVISION 1.1 – march 2014
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5. Connecting and Powering the Unit
WARNING: All connections between the YOUNG DSD and other equipment must
be made when all units are turned off and completely powered down or
unplugged. Failing to do so may cause damage to the YOUNG DSD and/or other
units.
Please refer to chapter 3, “Back Panel”.
Connect the digital sources (CD/SACD/DVD player, satellite receiver, DAB receiver)
to the inputs (Figure 2, 6-9).
Connect your computer to the YOUNG DSD USB input (Figure 2, 10).
If you want to use the YOUNG DSD as a preamplifier, connect the analog outputs to
the inputs of a power amplifier; otherwise connect the outputs to a pair of inputs on
an integrated amplifier or preamplifier (Figure 2, 5).
Connect the plug from the stock wall wart to the YOUNG DSD power input (Figure 2,
11).
Connect the wall wart to a mains outlet. The wall wart (AC-to-DC adapter) will
automatically accept any voltage from 90VAC to 265VAC.
Switch the YOUNG DSD on by pushing the front panel button (Figure 1, 1).
NOTE: whenever the YOUNG DSD is used as a preamplifier, it is a good habit to
switch the power amplifier on after switching the YOUNG DSD on, and to switch
the power amplifier off before switching the YOUNG DSD off.
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NOTE: it is possible to use a dedicated low noise power supply in place of the
wall wart, to increase the sonic performance M2Tech provides a device for this
purpose. Should the user opt for use of a non-M2Tech power supply, M2Tech
reserves the right to void the YOUNG DSD warranty..
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6. Cleaning the Unit
The YOUNG DSD should be cleaned with a soft, slightly damp cloth. Do not use
alcohol or any other types of cleaning fluids as they could damage the unit.
Avoid fluids from dropping or leaking inside the unit. Fluids of any type poured into
the unit will void your warranty.
Be careful not to scratch the Plexiglas front screen.
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7. Using the Young DSD
At power on, the YOUNG DSD spends a little time to ensure that all supplies reach their
nominal levels, during which the indication in Fig. 4 is displayed.
M2TECH
YOUNG DSD DAC
Figure 4
After the power on delay is expired, some general operational information is
displayed on the YOUNG DSD display, as shown in Fig. 5 and Fig. 6. The two figures
shown refer to two different volume and source choices. In Fig. 6 the indications “M”
and “PH” are shown to indicate that mute is active and phase is reversed.
VOL: 0.0DB
IN:USB FS:ULOCK
Figure 5
M PH VOL:-32.5DB
IN:RCA FS:ULOCK
Figure 6
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7.1. Volume Setting
Volume setting is done by either rotating the encoder knob (Figure 1.4), or pushing
the VOL+ e VOL- keys on the remote control.
Volume can be set from -96dB (minimum) to 0dB (maximum) in 0.5dB steps.
Depending on the chosen volume display mode, the display will show attenuation in
dB or in steps on a scale such that step “0” is equivalent of the minimum level
possible.
7.2. Mute Toggle
The YOUNG DSD is provided with a feature (muting) which allows for immediately
lowering of the listening level by 20dB without touching the encoder knob. This
feature is useful when it is necessary to listen to another person for a while, or to
operate the source to change track, answer the telephone, etc.
Muting is toggled by a short press of the front panel’s left button (Figure 1, 1). When
muting is active, the “M” letter appears on the display (Figure 6).
To reset muting the user only needs to push the front panel button once more: the
original listening level will be immediately restored and the “M” letter disappears.
As an alternative it is possible to toggle mute on and off by pushing the “MUTE” key
on the remote control.
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WARNING: pay attention to the volume setting when the muting is active: if
volume is raised too much, once the muting is reset the listening level could be
too high so as to damage the speakers or even the listener’s ears. It is always
wiser to limit volume when in mute mode and even when turning on and off the
YOUNG DSD.
DSD
7.3. Choosing the Signal’s Phase
The YOUNG DSD allows user to choose the phase of the outgoing analog signal. This
feature is useful in various ways. For example, it’s known that some recordings were
made with inverted phase. Absolute phase can therefore be restored applying a
second phase inversion into the DAC. Moreover, balanced connections come in two
different standards, depending on whether a certain piece of equipment was
designed in Japan on in a western Country: When connecting a Japanese gear to an
American or European one, a phase inversion is obtained. In this case, too, a second
phase inversion restores absolute phase.
To invert or restore the phase, just press the “PHASE” key on the remote control.
When the phase is inverted, the indication “PH” appears on the display (Fig. 6).
7.4. Source Selection
The YOUNG DSD is provided with various inputs, therefore it is possible to connect
different sources and select which one to listen to.
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To select a source, press the encoder shortly. The name of the current source will
start flashing on the display. Rotate the encoder until the desired source is displayed.
Then, press the encoder again to confirm: the new source will be selected.
Should the user change his/her mind and keep the current source, it is sufficient to
push the button to the left of the front panel (Fig. 1, 1) or avoid doing anything else:
After a few seconds the YOUNG DSD will automatically return in its “idle” status without
changing the source setting.
7.5. Menu Navigation
The YOUNG DSD allows for configuring various parameters, some of which (the ones
less frequently changed) are grouped in a menu which can be navigated by both the
front panel’s controls and the dedicated keys on the remote control.
To access the menu, keep the encoder pressed for at least two seconds or push the
“MENU” key on the remote control.
It is possible to scroll the various menu items with successive short pushes of the
encoder or with the “arrow up” and “arrow down” keys on the remote control.
Once the desired menu item is displayed, it is possible to choose the desired value
amongst the allowed values rotating the encoder or using the “arrow left” and “arrow
right” keys on the remote control.
The new value can therefore be confirmed with a new short push of the encoder or
by pushing the “OK” key on the remote control.
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If, at this point, the user changes his/her mind and wants to keep the current value,
it’s possible to exit the menu by pressing the front panel’s left button or by pushing
the “ESC” key on the remote control.
Following is a description of all menu items.
7.6. Balance Setting
The YOUNG DSD allows for setting the balance (that is, the relative level between left
and right channel) within a +/-6dB range in 1dB steps. To set balance it is necessary
to access the first menu item: The balance setting feature is shown as in Fig. 7.
CHANNELS
BALANCE
L
<>
R
Figure 7
Left channel is increased with regards to right channel by rotating the encoder
counter clockwise or by pushing the “arrow left” key on the remote control; right
channel is increased with regards to left channel by rotating the encoder clockwise or
pushing the “arrow right” key on the remote control.
To confirm or discard the newly chosen balance setting, proceed as described in
paragraph 7.5.
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Changes to the balance can be heard in real-time while rotating the encoder knob or
pushing the “arrow left” and “arrow right” keys on the remote control, but a new
balance setting is not stored in memory unless it’s confirmed by pressing the encoder
knob or pushing the “OK” key on the remote control: this is useful to try new balance
configurations without losing the current one when it proves to be the setting
preferred.
NOTE: this feature can be directly accessed from the remote control for greater
comfort by the “BAL L” and “BAL R” keys.
7.7. Choosing the Maximum Output Level
The YOUNG DSD can be used as either a normal source (when it’s connected to one
of the inputs of an integrated amplifier or a preamplifier), or as a preamplifier (when
it’s connected to a power amplifier). The two setups require the YOUNG DSD to provide
different output levels. In fact, many power amplifiers require higher voltages than
those provided by a normal DAC to reach the full output power, voltages which, on
the other hand, are largely excessive for a preamplifier.
The YOUNG DSD is capable of delivering an output voltage up to 10Vrms in balanced
mode, more than sufficient to drive even the most challenging single-ended tube
power amplifier. It’s obvious that should this ability be used to drive a preamplifier or
a solid state power amplifier, the user would be forced to always keep volume very
low, wasting a large part of the YOUNG DSD’s great low noise and dynamic
performance.
For this reason, it is possible to choose the maximum output level the YOUNG DSD
must deliver by the menu. The choice is between two values: 5Vrms in balanced
(therefore 2.5Vrms in single-ended) and 10Vrms in balanced (equivalent to 5Vrms in
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single-ended). The first value is preferred when driving low-sensitivity power
amplifiers, while the second value is best suited to when using the YOUNG DSD as a
true source connecting it to a preamplifier or when a high sensitivity power amplifier
is to be driven.
This feature is displayed on the display as shown in Fig. 8.
OUTPUT VOLTAGE
5.0V
Figure 8
7.8. Setting the Display’s Backlight Intensity
The YOUNG DSD display’s backlight intensity can be set on four different levels. An
automatic mode is also available which keeps the display always off, except when a
command is executed. This feature is displayed as shown in Fig. 9.
BACKLIGHT
LEVEL: 0
Figure 9
As for balance, this feature is applied in real-time to give user the possibility to
immediately see the results. Automatic mode is indicated by the “AUTO” value.
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7.9. Choosing Volume Mode
The YOUNG DSD listening level can be displayed in two fashions: either in deciBels or
in steps. Moreover, it is possible to freeze the listening level to the current value (this
is useful when the YOUNG DSD is used as a true source connected to a preamplifier or
integrated amplifier).
In decibel mode, the maximum level is 0dB, while negative values with increasing
magnitude indicate decreasing listening levels. For example, a listening level of 15dB is higher than a listening level of -20dB.
In steps mode, the maximum listening level is 192, while positive values with
decreasing magnitude indicate decreasing listening levels. For example, a listening
level of 40 will be higher than a listening level of 30.
This feature is displayed as in Fig 10. The example shows that the current volume
mode is in deciBels. Other modes are indicated by “STEPS” and “DISABLED”.
VOLUME MODE
DECIBELS
Figure 10
NOTE: Choosing one mode or the other doesn’t change the way the volume is
actually set: the YOUNG DSD allows for a setting between 0 and -96dB in 0.5dB
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steps. Only the way the volume is displayed is modified by the setting
described above.
7.10. Setting the Automatic Switch Off
To comply with UE requirements regarding energy saving, the YOUNG DSD is able to
automatically switch off after a certain idle time. By idle we mean a time lapse in
which user didn’t access any control, like volume or mute.
User can set the auto switch-off time (between 10 and 240 minutes in 10 minutes
steps) or he/she can disable this feature. The feature is displayed as in Fig. 11.
AUTO-OFF
240MIN
Figure 11
NOTE: To disable this feature, the value “0” must be selected, which is one of
the allowed values, as indicated in Fig. 12.
AUTO-OFF
0 MIN
Figure 12
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7.11. Checking Firmware Revision
The YOUNG DSD is a complicated device in which different microcontrollers interact for
correct operation. It’s possible, whenever needed, to update all controllers firmware
by the USB port of the YOUNG DSD. Therefore it’s necessary to access to YOUNG DSD
current firmware release information to decide whether an update is required or not.
This can be accomplished by accessing the menu as one of the items is that related
to firmware revisions, as shown in Fig. 13.
FW REV FPGA: 1.0
USB:1.1 uC: 1.0
Figure 13
Of course, a user can’t change the displayed values by the front panel controls nor
the remote: they only change when a firmware update is performed as described in
chapter 10.
7.12. Power Off and Standby
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The YOUNG DSD can be powered off by a prolonged push on the front panel’s left
button (Fig. 1, 1). After a couple seconds the unit switches off, reducing its current
draw to zero.
It is also possible to put the YOUNG DSD in standby by the related key on the remote
control. In this case, the YOUNG DSD, while stopping operation as when it is switched
off by the front panel, will keep a minimum current consumption because the main
controller and the IR receiver will stay on, waiting for an activation command from the
remote control (another push on the standby key) or any action on one front panel
control.
Standby mode is indicated by a LED lit on the front panel (Fig. 1, 2).
NOTE: Even in the off condition, the YOUNG DSD actually draws a very little
current which is virtually negligible.
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8. Using a Computer as Digital Source
While the connection of the various legacy digital sources (CD/DVD/Blu-Ray player)
to the YOUNG DSD is quite straightforward, the connection to the computer by the USB
port requires a few configuration steps by the user.
Fortunately, the YOUNG DSD is provided with an USB 2.0interface which is compatible
with USB Audio Device Class 2. Therefore, Apple and Linux computers natively
support the YOUNG DSD, that is they do not need a driver and immediately recognize
the DAC in a plug’n’play fashion. Conversely, a computer provided with a Microsoft
operating system require a suitable driver which can be downloaded from M2Tech
website (www.m2tech.biz). Look under “Products” and then under “Young DSD” to
find this driver for download to your PC.
Below, the procedures to set a computer for music playback by the YOUNG DSD are
described. Reader are advised that some details in the described procedures may
differ depending on the operating system version installed on your computer and the
player chosen by the user; the following descriptions are general guidelines to the
configuration of computer and player.
8.1. Plug’n’Play Operation with Apple OSX
As explained in the introductory paragraph to the present chapter, the YOUNG DSD is
provided with an USB interface compatible with USB Audio Device Class 2 which is
natively supported by Apple OSX since the 10.6.4 release, without the need for any
driver: It is sufficient to connect the YOUNG DSD to own Mac with the stock USB cable
to have it recognized by the Mac, which will then include it in the audio output device
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list, as shown in Fig. 14. The YOUNG DSD is indicated as “M2Tech USB 2.0 Audio
Out”.
Figure 14
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To send the computer audio to the YOUNG DSD it is necessary to select it in the
“Sound” window as shown in Fig. 14.
It’s possible to set some parameters related to the YOUNG DSD operation (specifically,
the sampling frequency at which the Mac will send audio samples to the DAC) by the
MIDI Audio window, as shown in Fig. 15.
Figure 15
It is now possible to listen to music by simply selecting the USB input on the YOUNG
DSD and using iTunes. Please note that even when the chosen playlist includes tracks
with different sampling frequencies, the YOUNG DSD will always display one sampling
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frequency that is the one selected in the MIDI Audio panel (Fig. 15). This implies a
real-time resampling feature by the Mac’s operating system which is seldom welcome
by the user. In this case, another player should be used which is able to automatically
change the above setting, like Amarra, PureMusic and Audirvana. Unlike iTunes,
other players need to be properly configured to use the YOUNG DSD as output device.
As an example, Fig. 16 shows the configuration window of Audirvana. Please note it
is necessary to choose the YOUNG DSD as Active Audio Device.
Figure 16
Also please note that amongst the available options are those related to Direct Mode
and exclusive access to the resource (“Exclusive Access Mode”). They are peripheral
access modes which provide a higher listening quality and which are supported by
the YOUNG DSD. Therefore, we suggest using them whenever possible.
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8.1.1. DSD files playback with Mac
The YOUNG DSD is able to play music files recorded with the DSD format. A player
able to send DSD data to the YOUNG DSD in a standard format handled by the DAC
must be used. As an example, the configuration of Audirvana necessary for DSD files
playback is shown in Fig. 17.
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Figure 17
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8.2. Plug’n’Play Operation with Linux
As explained in the introductory paragraph to the present chapter, the YOUNG DSD is
provided with an USB interface compatible with USB Audio device Class 2 which is
natively supported by Linux with ALSA since its 1.0.24 release.
NOTE: given the vast availability of different Linux distributions, often heavily
customized, it may be necessary to check that both kernel and ALSA versions
are suitable for native USB Audio Device Class support. When in doubt, ask the
creator of your Linux distribution for more information.
As with Apple OSX, with Linux it is necessary to choose the YOUNG DSD as the
output device. This can be done accessing the audio management window and
setting the various parameters as shown in Fig. 18 which shows Ubuntu’s audio
configuration windows. Ubuntu is one of the most successful Linux distributions.
Other distributions may differ in the number and kind of available parameters. The
window displayed in the figure lists two M2Tech audio devices: they are actually the
same device that is the YOUNG DSD, it is therefore sufficient to select any one to
choose the YOUNG DSD as the output audio device.
By setting the YOUNG DSD as predefined audio output device, we make it available to
all those apps which rely on the operating system to transport audio. This is
mandatory to listen to streaming music by a browser, for example. This operation
mode already allows for high quality playback (sampling frequency up to 192kHz). It
also could be desirable to use a player which doesn’t rely on the operating system to
transport audio, in order to overcome its limits (for example, to listen to audio file
samples at 352.8kHz or DSD audio files).
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Figure 18
Depending on the chosen player, it is necessary to configure it to use the YOUNG
DSD. Obviously, each player has its configuration parameters. As an example, the
configuration panel of Audacious, a widely used player, is shown in Fig. 19.
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Figure 19
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8.2.1. DSD files playback with Linux
The availability of DSD audio files is quite recent, therefore it’s possible that your
player is not able to play DSD files, or maybe its most current release it is, but not the
one you have installed on your computer. For example, MPD player, by far the most
used under Linux, only supports DSD since its 0.17 release. Be sure that your player
supports DSD and refer to the instructions provided by the player creator, or install a
player which you’re sure supports DSD.
8.3. Using the Young DSD with Windows
As explained in the introductory paragraph to the present chapter, no Microsoft
operating system natively supports USB Audio Device Class 2. To listen to music
files with the YOUNG DSD connected to a computer running Windows it is therefore
necessary to install a driver. The following paragraph describes the driver installation
procedure.
NOTE: Installation procedure’s details may vary depending on the version of
the operating system installed on your computer. This description is meant to
be accurate with regards to the fundamental steps necessary to its successful
completion.
NOTE: The YOUNG DSD is designed to implement the HID interface for remote
control of the player running on a computer attached by USB (see chapter 9).
This could lead to compatibility problems with Windows XP. We strongly
suggest updating the operating system to a more recent version than Windows
XP before installing the driver.
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8.3.1. Installing the Windows driver
First, it is necessary to download the driver from the M2Tech website at
(www.m2tech.biz/it/youngdsd.html) Here you’ll find the compressed folder containing
all installation files. It’s a self-extracting file: automatic extraction is launched by
double-clocking on its icon, as shown in Fig. 20.
Figure 20
NOTE: files are extracted in the folder displayed in the window, usually the
desktop. For a better handling of the installation operation, we suggest to
create a temporary folder and extract files into it, or into a folder you may want
to keep. In this case, just designate a new folder and direct the extraction
process to that folder.
A window showing the extraction process appears for a while. When extraction is
complete, the application finishes automatically. In case of errors during extraction, a
diagnostic window is shown instead (Fig. 21), which remains open to show error
messages. After reading messages, close the application by clicking on the “close
button”.
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Figure 21
Once the files are extracted, open the temporary folder or the folder you have
designated and run the setup application by double-clicking on “setup.exe” (Fig. 22).
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Figure 22
Once setup is launched, the window shown in Fig. 23 appears.
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Figure 23
NOTE: It may happen that the operating systems shows a warning window
first, stating that the setup application will modify the operating system. Close
the warning window by clocking on the “OK” button to let the setup program
free to proceed.
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Connect the YOUNG DSD to the computer and switch it on. Then, click on the “Next”
button to proceed with installation. The window shown in Fig. 24 will appear.
Figure 24
If the DAC is correctly connected to the computer, after a few seconds the window
shown in Fig. 25a will appear. If necessary, indicate a folder of your choice, otherwise
leave the one proposed by the setup. Click on the “Install” button.
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When the Young is off YOUNG DSD or when the computer doesn’t recognize the
connection to the YOUNG DSD, then window shown in Fig. 25b may appear. In this
case, follow the instructions displayed in red and then click on the “Next” button.
Figure 25a
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Figura 25b
If the window shown in Fig. 25a has appeared and the user has clicked on the
“Install” button, the installation procedure goes on and a new window appears that
shows the progress of the installation of the various files which make the driver, as
shown in Fig. 26.
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Figure 26
At the end of installation, the windows will show the complete list of installed files and
will enable the buttons located in the lower right angle of the window border, as
shown in Fig. 27.
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Figure 27
As suggested by the instructions, click on the “Next” button to confirm the installation.
The final setup window will appear as shown in Fig. 28.
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Figure 28
Click on the “Finish” button to close setup: The driver installation is now complete.
NOTE: Some Windows versions require a reboot to enable the driver just
installed: Fig. 29 shows the dialog window for Windows 7.
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Figure 29
Installation success can be checked by looking for the big red “T” icon in the
peripheral section of Windows bar or in the active peripherals window, depending on
operating system version. Fig. 30 below shows Windows 8 window as an example.
Figure 30
NOTA: With some Windows versions (e.g. Windows XP, which we strongly
suggest that you don’t use), the driver installation procedure does NOT
complete with setup end. In fact, the operating system will recognize a new
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USB device (the YOUNG DSD,
DSD of course) and will begin a search for the best
driver (which is the one just installed) to create an instantiation associated to
the specific port to which the DAC is attached. Should this happen, reject the
option of internet search for the driver files and proceed with automatic
installation: the Windows wizard will then search amongst the drivers already
installed, will locate the right one and proceed to the end of the association
process. At this point only, will the YOUNG DSD be correctly recognized and can
be used to listen to music files.
8.3.2. Windows driver uninstall
The YOUNG DSD driver uninstall may be required for various reasons. For sure, it is
mandatory to uninstall any previous driver version before installing the latest one.
It is possible to start uninstall in two different ways: Using the applications installation
utility from the Control Panel or directly launching the uninstaller that can be found in
the driver folder on the hard disk. The same application is actually used in both
cases; the choice is up to user’s preference.
When launching the Windows’ applications installation utility from the Control Panel,
the window shown in Fig. 31 appears, this also lists YOUNG DSD driver.
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Figure 31
By double-clicking “USB Audio Driver for M2Tech…” the uninstall application is
launched, which shows itself like in Fig. 32.
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Figure 32
It’s sufficient to click on the “Uninstall” button to start uninstall. A windows appears
that shows the uninstall progress, like as shown in Fig. 33.
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Figure 33
At uninstall completion, the window will show the entire list of deleted files and will
enable the buttons located to the lower right corner of the window border, as shown
in Fig. 34.
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Figure 34
Click on the “Next” button to confirm uninstall completion and to close the uninstall
utility. One last window will appear as shown in Fig. 35.
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Figure 35
Clock on the “Finish” button to close the application. At this point if the user launched
uninstall from the Control Panel, it is possible to verify that the driver has really been
uninstalled by checking for its absence from the applications list, as shown in Fig. 36.
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Figure 36
NOTE: Even after uninstall, depending on the Windows version used, it is
possible that the system may require a reboot to update its configuration.
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8.3.3. Windows Driver Panel
Together with the YOUNG DSD driver a comprehensive management panel is installed,
which runs in background and allows user to optimize the driver operation and
update the YOUNG DSD firmware.
The panel can be restored in the foreground by clicking on the big red “T” icon
present in the right part of the Windows bar or in the peripherals window, depending
on the operating system version installed on your computer.
When the YOUNG DSD or any other M2Tech device is not connected to the computer,
the window shown in Fig. 37 will appear.
Conversely, when the YOUNG DSD is connected, then the panel will show some
general information about the driver and will exhibit a tree menu as shown in Fig. 38.
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Figure 37
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Figure 38
Of main interest is the driver version, as users may visit the M2Tech website from
time to time to check for availability of more recent driver versions and eventually go
for an update to download and install.
By clicking on “Buffer Settings” the user accesses the window to set the buffers
through which the driver exchanges data with the operating system or directly with
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the player (Fig. 39). Two drop boxes are present, one for the buffer shared with the
operating system and one for an ASIO buffer (which bypasses the operating system
and needs a specific setting). As a general rule, a small buffer is to be preferred
when low latency is required (e.g. when the YOUNG DSD is used to listen to a movie’s
audio). In any event, a small buffer needs frequent data transfers, which may result in
“holes” in the audio stream when the CPU is heavily loaded or when one of the active
drivers doesn’t comply with the time specification of the system.
Figure 39
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The firmware upgrade feature (“Firmware Upgrade, Fig. 40) is fundamental to keep
the YOUNG DSD up to date. More details in chapter 10.
Figure 40
For every device associated to a driver instantiation, a setting window is available. In
these sub-chapter figures, only one device has been detected (“Device 0”). In Fig. 41
its associated window is shown.
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Figure 41
Apart some parameters which are displayed but cannot be changed by the user, it is
interesting to note the streaming mode and the button to access volume control,
shown in Fig. 42.
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Figure 42
The XMOS-based system used in the YOUNG DSD allows for digital volume setting.
Anyway, we suggest not to use this feature as the YOUNG DSD has a built-in analogue
volume control which has much better sonic performance. It’s important to be aware
that, in case of the absence of sound, the total mute in this window may be enabled
(one or both “M” buttons pressed).
The remaining two sub-menu items for Device 0 (Fig. 43 and Fig. 44) show
parameters which cannot be changed by the user.
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Figure 43
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Figure 44
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8.3.4. Using the YOUNG DSD as Windows predefined audio device
When using certain players, such as Windows Media Player, or when listening to
streaming music from the Internet, it is necessary to set the YOUNG DSD as the
predefined audio output device. To this purpose it is necessary to access the Audio
Configuration utility from the Windows Control Panel (Fig. 45).
Figure 45
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Here the user must select “YoungDSD UAC2” as predefined device (as it’s already
been done in the case shown in Fig. 45). From that moment on, every sound
produced by Windows or any application which relies on Windows to deliver its sound
will be sent to the YOUNG DSD.
It is also possible to tell the operating system which sampling frequency and
resolution are to be used to operate the YOUNG DSD. To this purpose, it is sufficient to
click on the “Properties” button, thus opening the window shown in Fig. 46.
Figure 46
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By accessing the drop-down menu available in the “Advanced” tab it will be possible
to choose one of the system’s available configurations. Once a configuration is
chosen, the system will automatically convert any audio signal with different sampling
frequency and resolution so that the YOUNG DSD will always work at the sampling
frequency and resolution set by the user.
Should the user need the operating system not to process the audio to be sent to the
YOUNG DSD, or when the limits of system settings need to be overcome, it is
necessary to use a player able to directly interface to the driver, using a transfer
mode like Kernel Streaming, WASAPI or ASIO, all are “bit-perfect” modes as they
ensure that no signal changes occur during the transfer from the player to the YOUNG
DSD.
8.3.5. Configuring the player: FooBar and JRiver Media Center
A player able to communicate with the driver without using the operating system
usually delivers better performance with respect to players which rely on Windows to
transport audio.
Amongst the problems or limits more often observed when the latter kind of players is
used, is the 192kHz limit, the lack of compatibility with DSD and the fact that all
various sampling frequencies are always converted to the sampling frequency
chosen by the user in the Control Panel.
As examples, following are some suggestions to use the YOUNG DSD with two wellknown media players, a free one and a commercial one.
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The first one is FooBar (www.foobar2000.org). FooBar is able to work in all modes
accepted by the YOUNG DSD: Direct Sound, Kernel Streaming, WASAPI and ASIO.
Skipping installation instructions, which are beyond this manual’s scope, we explain
how to configure FooBar in ASIO mode, which is the optimal choice for the YOUNG
DSD.
Foobar offers ASIO support through the installation of a specific DLL. It must be
downloaded from the “Components” section of the FooBar website, from the page
http://www.foobar2000.org/components/view/foo_out_asio.
NOTE: Unlike many other FooBar DLL’s, which are contained in a zip file and
must be manually extracted and copied into the “Components” folder inside
FooBar’s root folder, the ASIO file which is downloaded from the FooBar
website is an application which automatically installs the DLL in the right
folder, without any explicit action by the user. It only needs to be launched by
double-clocking its icon.
Once the operation above is done, FooBar can be launched to access the
configuration windows by typing CTRL+P, or selecting the menu item “Preferences”
from the “File” menu. Then, select the sub-menu item “Output”, which should also
have a lower menu level called “ASIO”: The window shown in Fig. 47 will appear.
Select “ASIO: MUSBAudio ASIO Driver” in the dropdown menu called “Device”.
FooBar is then ready to use the YOUNG DSD as the output device in ASIO mode, to
play bit-perfect PCM audio up to 384kHz and 32 bit.
It is now necessary to set FooBar for DSD file playback. To this purpose, it is
necessary to install another DLL, the one for SACD compatibility, which can be
downloaded from the Sourceforge website:
http://sourceforge.net/projects/sacddecoder/files/latest/download.
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Figure 47
The zip file contains two executables, both to be used: one for the installation of the
component for the compatibility with SACD ISO files, plus a proxy file to send DSD to
a compatible audio device provided with an ASIO compliant driver, like the YOUNG
DSD.
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After installing DLL and proxy, in the “ASIO” section of “Output” two ASIO objects will
appear (Fig. 48): the M2Tech driver and the proxy (“foo_dsd_asio”).
Figure 48
Double-click on “foo_dsd_asio” to open the configuration window as shown in Fig. 49.
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Figure 49
Configure the parameters as in the figure: FooBar is now ready to send DSD streams
from DSD files to the YOUNG DSD.
The second player used as an example is JRiver Media Center (www.jriver.com).
JRiver is a commercial player, a “closet” product which is delivered provided with all
the needed features to support various audio transfer modes and the various audio
formats.
As with FooBar, we’ll skip the installation instructions for the player. Access JRiver’s
option window and set “ASIO” in the “Audio” section as “Output mode” (Fig. 50).
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Figure 50
Then, open the window for the configuration of the output mode (“Output mode
settings”), which is obviously dedicated to ASIO, and select the “MUSBAudio ASIO
Driver”, as shown in Fig. 51.
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Figure 51
At this point, JRiver recognizes the capability to handle DSD in DoP (DSD over PCM)
format. From the dropdown menu which is selected by clicking on “Bitstreaming”,
select “Custom…” as shown in Fig. 52
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Figure 52
A window will automatically appear in which the user can manually set the bitstream
configuration parameters (Fig. 53). Set parameters as shown in figure.
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Figure 53
The configuration procedure is almost over: we still need to tell JRiver not to
downsample data streams with sampling frequency higher than 192kHz, (An
operation which is usually enabled to cope with all those DAC’s, still the vast majority,
which can only accept sampling frequencies up to 192kHz). Obviously, this would
lead to trouble with DSD128, which is same as a 352.8kHz PCM stream. Therefore,
access the “DSP and output” menu and set the parameter related to the processing
of files with sampling frequency higher than 192kHz as in Fig. 54.
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Figura 54
JRiver configuration is complete and the user can now listen to PCM files up to
384kHz and DSD files up to DSD128.
8.3.6. Connecting the YOUNG DSD to an USB 1.1 port
It is possible to connect the YOUNG DSD to an USB 1.1 port under Windows. In this
case, the driver will scale the DAC’s performance to comply with USB Audio Device
Class 1 specifications. When choosing the predefined output device, the name
“YoungDSD UAC1” will appear.
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In such a scenario, the YOUNG DSD will still be usable, however limited to audio PCM
files with sampling frequency up to 96kHz and with no DSD playback.
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9. Controlling the Computer Player by Using the Young
DSD Remote Control
The USB interface of the YOUNG DSD implements the HID protocol, which allows for
sending commands to the player running on the computer to which the YOUNG DSD is
connected. This feature is very useful whenever the computer is placed close to an
audio system, therefore away from the user, who can now conveniently use the
YOUNG DSD remote control.
Three keys are present on the remote control (Fig. 3) which allow to start and pause
playback and skip to the next or previous track.
This feature is not available with all players nor with all operating systems, or with all
versions of a certain operating system. Therefore, it is up to the user to check
whether or not the chosen player and the operating system in use are HID ready.
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10. Updating Young DSD Firmware
As shown in paragraph 8.3.3, Fig. 40, it is possible to update the firmware of the
YOUNG DSD, whenever this is required, using the driver panel installed with the driver
itself on any Windows computer.
On the M2Tech website, in the YOUNG DSD product page, a list of upgrades that can
be downloaded is available. To do a firmware upgrade, the following steps must be
done:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Download the most recent update from the M2Tech website;
Connect the YOUNG DSD to the computer with the stock USB cable;
Turn the YOUNG DSD on;
Activate the driver management panel by clicking the big red “T” icon on the
Windows bar or in the peripherals window;
Select the “Firmware Upgrade” sub-menu;
Click on “Browse” to select the update file just downloaded;
Once the file has been confirmed, click on “Start Firmware Upgrade” to launch
the update procedure. The YOUNG DSD will confirm the update mode by a
message on the display;
Wait for the end of the update, which will be indicated by both the driver panel
and the YOUNG DSD display.
If, for any reason, the firmware update should not succeed, it will be possible to
restart it for positive completion.
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11. Specifications
Inputs: ............................................... AES/EBU on female XLR socket
S/PDIF on female RCA socket
S/PDIF on female BNC socket
Optical on Toslink™ connector
Async USB compatible with USB Audio Device
Class 2/1 “B” type female USB connector
Outputs: ............................................ Balanced analogue on gold-plated male XLR
connectors
Power input:...................................... 5.5/2.1mm jack with positive on tip
Output voltage: ................................. 2.7Vrms @0dBFS (single-ended with adaptors,
“normal”)
5.4Vrms @0dBFS (single-ended with adaptors,
“high”)
5.4Vrms @0dBFS (balanced, “normal”)
10.8Vrms @0dBFS (balanced, “high”)
Output impedance: ........................... 100Ohm (single ended with adaptors)
200Ohm (balanced)
Signal-to-noise ratio: ......................... 118dB (0dBFS, balanced, “A”-weighted)
114dB (0dBFS, single-ended, “A”-weighted)
THD+N:............................................. 0.0008% (-3dBFS, balanced, 1kHz)
0.003% (-3dBFS, single-ended, 1kHz)
Sampling frequency PCM: ................ 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4*, 192*, 352.8**,
384**kHz
DSD formats ..................................... 64x, 128x**
PCM resolution ................................. 16 to 32 bit (USB)
16 to 24 bit (other inputs)
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Volume setting .................................. 0dB to -96dB in 0.5dB steps
Muting ............................................... -20dB
Balance setting ................................. +/-6dB in 1dB steps
Phase:............................................... 0°, 180°
Automatic switch-off.......................... 10 to 240 minutes in 10 minutes steps,
plus disabled
Supply:.............................................. 15VDC 300mA
Power consumption: ......................... 4.5VA
Size:.................................................. 200x50x200mm (w x h x d)
Weight............................................... 1.7kg (device only)
2.5kg (packed)
* Not on Toslink™
** USB Only
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